I love this group! Everyone who knows anything about this endurance sport knows it ain't for the faint at heart;-) You guys could put a flock of DQ's to shame!
Anyway, I have a question for the group which I hope will help me makes some decisions, but not stir up a hornets nest. BTW, I go both ways on the barefoot thing:-) I ride an eight year old arab cross with some early arthritis in his right fetlock. We have completed several 25 mile CTR in the past year, after 2 years of long slow work. We've placed once, but there is always this issue of mild lameness. He always comes in looking great but then if we have to stand around for more than 20-30 minutes he starts getting stiff. So I walk him and walk him before the final trot out and so far so good. There is never any heat or swelling, just this limp. Metabolically, he's a machine. In training he can do 30 miles at 8-10 mph without bumping 150. My question is this: First do you think this horse can be successful doing longer distance? I was thinking of a 50 miler next year. I know he can do the distance, but I'm concerned about the wear and tear on
his joints. Second, anyone have suggestions as to how to manage this problem? I have him on joint support in the form of Glucosamine and hyaluronic acid, which if I'm not mistaken is legal. I have used some homeopathic sprays, and photonic therapy between rides and believe it or not they seem to help alittle. My understanding is that these are considered illegal to use during competition. The best thing I have found is to keep him moving. I do alot of ground work (not lounging) to keep him limbered up on days I don't ride. If he goes too many days without work, he's like an old man. I really love this horse. He is a dream to ride and I of course have aspirations to do the Vermont 100 or the Old Dominion on him. (Cuz I'm a girl and we fantasize more about horses than men;) But am I expecting too much of him? I would appreciate any comments or suggestions. Just don't yell at me- I'm very sensitive!
Jennifer.
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